If you live in Florida, you may be wondering if there are agama lizards in Florida. It is true that the Peters’s Rock Agama has been introduced to the state through the pet trade. In 1976, a reptile dealer released a few of them near Miami-Dade County, Palm City, and Martin County. Since then, their range has grown significantly.
Peter’s rock agama is one of the most common non-native species in Florida. The males can grow to twelve inches long, including the tail. Their size is a concern for endangered butterfly species, as they feed on these insects.
The lizards can be a nuisance in Florida’s ecosystems, but they’re generally harmless.
You may be surprised to learn that the species is actually a beneficial one.
The redhead agama, which is native to Africa, made its debut in South Florida in 1976. They probably escaped from the pet trade and were released into the wild.
Stuart was the primary city where they were introduced.
The lizards are typically found in southern Florida, though they can survive year-round in the state’s consistently wet climate. If you see an agama in Florida, you should report it to local authorities, and report it to the EDDMapS reporting system.
The Peters’ rock agama is another popular species in Florida. Peters’ rock agama has long, slender scales that are ridged and tapering to a point. The body of the lizard is a black-and-orange color. Males grow to around twelve inches in length. The males tend to be the most colorful, with red or orange markings on their heads.
The University of Florida has an award-winning program that helps people learn about native species. This program teaches people about Florida’s native animals, including agama lizards.
The program is designed to help people discover and protect native species. The program encourages citizens to take action against invasive species and protect their local ecosystems. If you spot an agama lizard in the wild, you can report it by filling out a short online form.
Agamas in Florida are mainly found in urbanized areas. They have been recorded in South Florida on light posts and in Everglades national park. You may have seen them while driving in South Florida.
Agamas eat insects and other invertebrates. These species differ from invasive iguanas, which eat plants. The latter is an especially big concern.
In the past decade, scientists have confirmed the presence of agama lizards in Florida.
Agama picticauda was introduced to the state from East Africa in the 1970s, but they are not venomous. The invasive species can be humanely destroyed with pellet guns or by baiting mechanisms. For a better chance of survival, it is best to contact the University of Florida’s Center for Research and Conservation.
Despite being widely distributed in Florida, agama lizards may still be found in sub-Saharan Africa. Their numbers have grown rapidly and are now invasive species.
You may want to consider purchasing an agama lizard for your home instead of taking a chance on an invasive species.
But don’t fret – there are a few things you can do to protect your agama lizard.
Is an Agama Lizard Harmful to Your Pets?
You may be wondering if an agama lizard is harmful to your pets. If you haven’t decided yet, here are some things to keep in mind. You should always make sure your lizard’s habitat is cool and moist.
Aside from being cool, it should be kept at a constant temperature between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It needs a moist substrate but not one that is so dry that it becomes uncomfortable to touch.
Are Agama Lizards Invasive in Florida?
Agama lizards have been spotted in the state of Florida, but the question is, are they invasive?
Florida is not unfamiliar with invasive species, having introduced the Argentine Black and White Tegu earlier this year.
Scientists say that the red-headed Agama picticauda is not considered a threat to the state’s native species, but they’re concerned nonetheless.
Are Agama Lizards Good Pets?
Agama lizards are great pets that are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for. Red-Headed agamas are easy to handle and can be tamed over time. They are not poisonous and do not produce defensive toxins through the skin.
If you think you might want to adopt one, you should do independent research.
Wrapping Up…
The agama lizard is a popular species in Florida that is known for its long, slender scales and black-and-orange color.
The male agama lizards tend to be the most colorful, with red or orange markings on their heads.
The agama lizard is mainly found in urbanized areas and has been recorded in South Florida on light posts and in Everglades national park. These lizards eat insects and other invertebrates.
Scientists have confirmed the presence of agama lizards in Florida, but they are not considered a threat to the state’s native species. Agama lizards make great pets that are relatively inexpensive and easy to care for.
If you are thinking about adopting an agama lizard, you should do some independent research.
